Hello everyone,
This is ReeAnn sending an update from Dad/Don/Bro... email.
Currently his condition is stable. A bit has happened since the last email. On Saturday after 2nd dose of chemo given on Friday symptoms of neurotoxicity stated to present. ie; muscle twitching, visual disturbances and slight confusion. This was said to be a result from the isofurosimide (spelling?). Anyways an antidote of methylene blue was started and now being the third day of treatment symptoms have improved but not completely gone. Subsequently the 3rd dose of chemo was withheld. A few other issues resolved: A PICC line (long term IV) was placed on 7/6, and a Gastric tube (g-tube) was surgicaly placed directly into the stomach today, in order to be able to remove the NG tube in his nose. As a result of the g-tube placement red blood count dropped to 7 something and will get a couple of units (pints) of blood tonight. For the most part he is weak but was able to go for a physical therapy assisted walk today (just to end of hall and back). Even though it made him exausted I think he enjoyed it. There is a fairly good chance he will be discharged friday and if not should be able to get a "day pass" from the hospital to attend David Alfred's funneral. Otherwise we are still waiting for the intestinal issue to resolve. If it doesn't then it may be possible surgical intervention may be necessary. The next chemo cycle is expected to be in 3 weeks inwhich the antidotewill beadministered prior and during treatment. When is release to home there will be a down stairs bed and other equip with a home health nurse assigned until strength improves.
Send prayers and love
ReeAnn